Former Parkland shooting judge criticises shooter’s attorneys in talk to law students
The former judge who presided over the trial of the 2018 Parkland high school mass murderer has sharply criticised his public defenders during a presentation to Miami law students. Former Broward County Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer told the Florida International University law students that the attorneys “lost their minds” as they defended Nikolas Cruz during his 2022 trial for the killing of 14 students and three staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018.
According to Scherer, she had a friendly relationship with Cruz’s lead attorney, assistant public defender Melisa McNeill, and her team before the case began. However, during four years of pretrial motions, three months of jury selection, and the three-month trial, tensions arose. Scherer highlighted instances where the defence team engaged in unprofessional behaviour such as talking, passing notes, using a computer printer, and brushing their hair while prosecution witnesses were testifying. She recounted an incident where one attorney raised her middle finger at a camera broadcasting the trial live, which led to concerns about breaching attorney-client privilege.
Scherer, who resigned from the bench in June 2023, following Cruz’s sentencing to life in prison without parole, expressed her disappointment at the actions of Cruz’s defence team. Despite facing criticism herself from the state’s Judicial Qualifications Commission for her conduct towards Cruz’s attorneys, Scherer defended her management of the case. She acknowledged that it was a challenging and emotional trial, but she believes she did a good job overall.
The former judge also shared that she offered to hug McNeill and her team after the trial, but her gesture was declined. Reflecting on her decisions during the case, Scherer admitted that while she might have done some things differently, she does not regret her actions. She affirmed that her emotional responses were driven by the unique and lengthy nature of the trial involving 17 families impacted by the tragedy.
Scherer further disclosed that she left the bench to pursue other opportunities and a higher salary, emphasizing that her resignation was not influenced by the commission’s findings. She continues her legal career as a partner in her father’s civil law firm and hosts a legal affairs podcast. Scherer also mentioned negotiations to host a television show similar to “Judge Judy.”
Throughout the talk, Scherer maintained her perspective on Cruz, describing him as a “sociopath” who showed no remorse for his actions. She highlighted the emotional challenges of handling a death penalty trial, especially when facing statements from victims’ families. Despite facing criticism and scrutiny, Scherer remains resolute in her belief that she handled the case to the best of her abilities.
In conclusion, Scherer’s insights shed light on the complexities and emotional toll of high-profile legal cases, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism and composure in the face of adversity. The former judge’s experiences serve as a reminder of the demanding nature of the judicial system and the critical role played by legal professionals in delivering justice.